Ryotei Ryokan Atami Koarashitei

The Japanese garden is beautiful and worth a look, and the rooms are spacious with a modern Japanese style. We had very good food served in our room. There isn’t a private onsen in the room; instead, there are two large tubs on the top floor. One of them was a little too lukewarm.

This is a traditional luxury Japanese hotel, and the ten-course dinner is a pure pleasure, with classic dishes. If you don’t have a friend who speaks Japanese with you, things may be confusing. I’d suggest asking for extra rice if you have an American-sized appetite. There’s a hot spring in the room or on the 8th floor, and the drinks in the fridge hit the spot afterward. The supermarket across the street has more alcohol choices. When you return, the bed will already be made. Breakfast is brought to your room, and I’d go easy on the rice if you want one last soak before leaving. It’s not cheap, but an experience like this is worth it.

The food was the standout for me. Every dish was thoughtfully prepared, looked lovely, and tasted great. You could also see the traditional inn’s attention to detail in the way we were greeted and escorted to our room. The staff were considerate all the way through, and our stay was very satisfying. I’d definitely like to return.

The meal was simple but delicious, making the most of the broth and ingredients. Even little things, like how ripe the fruit was, seemed carefully considered, and I left very satisfied. The facilities and service were excellent too, but the food was what impressed me most about this ryokan. A wonderful stay, and I’d like to come again.